2014 Kia Forte Koup Range Gains Sporty New SX Model

The Kia Forte Koup lineup just got a whole lot sportier at the 2013 New York Auto Show: the new 201-horsepower, turbocharged Koup SX has made its debut alongside the base Koup EX.

With 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque from its 1.6-liter, direct-injected turbo four-cylinder engine, the Forte Koup SX is the most powerful Koup model ever.

With front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission (a six-speed automatic is available), the Koup SX aims to be Kia's sportiest model. The Koup EX comes standard with an automatic transmission for its 2.0-liter, 173-horsepower four-cylinder engine.

"The Forte Koup is arguably the sportiest vehicle in our award-winning lineup, and it has helped raise Kia’s brand awareness significantly among automotive enthusiasts," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing & communications, Kia Motors America. "Its rakish design, premium amenities and powerful turbocharged engine set it apart from the competition."

The Koup SX and EX join the Forte sedan and hatchback, and despite the performance-directed marketing and turbocharged engine, there's still plenty of Kia value going on as well.

The Kia Forte Koup SX also has its own aesthetic features, with a larger opening in the bumper and grille, black gloss grille inserts, larger front brakes, alloy pedals, and "carbon fiber-style" interior and exterior accents.

The new Koup range goes on sale in the fourth quarter of 2013. Pricing and other details will be announced closer to its retail launch.